Managing Persistent Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms: Tips for Relief

Nasal allergy symptoms

I often experience discomfort due to nasal allergies, which frequently leads to colds or respiratory issues.
Although I have visited an allergy clinic and have been prescribed medication, I still feel some physical discomfort.
It seems that I want to sit or lie down to allow my body to rest and to better identify where the discomfort is coming from.
Even though the allergy clinic has identified my allergens, I still experience the aforementioned symptoms.
My next follow-up appointment is in March.
Could you please advise me on how to manage my frequent physical discomfort?

Bu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/04

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, avoiding exposure to allergens and controlling symptoms with medication should help improve discomfort.
Recently, the air quality has been poor, so it is advisable to have appropriate respiratory protection when going outside.
Consulting a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner online is not equivalent to an in-person visit and cannot provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/02/04

More Info

Managing persistent allergic rhinitis can be challenging, especially when symptoms interfere with daily life. Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction that causes sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and other symptoms. Here are some tips and strategies to help manage your symptoms effectively:

1. Identify and Avoid Triggers
Understanding what triggers your allergic reactions is crucial. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and certain foods. Since you mentioned that you have already identified some allergens, try to minimize your exposure to them. For example:
- Pollen: Stay indoors on high pollen days, especially in the morning when pollen counts are highest. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning.

- Dust Mites: Use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, wash bedding in hot water weekly, and reduce clutter in your home.

- Mold: Keep humidity levels low in your home, fix leaks, and clean damp areas regularly.

2. Medications
Since you have already consulted with a healthcare provider and received medication, it’s important to continue using them as prescribed. Common medications for allergic rhinitis include:
- Antihistamines: These can help relieve sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Non-drowsy options like loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) are often recommended.

- Nasal Corticosteroids: These are effective for reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and can significantly improve symptoms. Examples include fluticasone (Flonase) and budesonide (Rhinocort).

- Decongestants: These can help relieve nasal congestion but should not be used for extended periods due to potential rebound congestion.

3. Nasal Irrigation
Using a saline nasal rinse can help clear allergens and mucus from your nasal passages. This can be done using a neti pot or saline spray. It’s a simple and effective way to alleviate nasal congestion and improve breathing.

4. Lifestyle Modifications
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and keep your nasal passages moist.

- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in your home can help maintain moisture in the air, which can soothe irritated nasal passages, especially during dry seasons.

- Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can improve your overall immune function, potentially reducing the severity of allergic reactions.

5. Consider Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
If your symptoms are severe and not well-controlled with medications, you may want to discuss the option of allergy shots with your healthcare provider. Immunotherapy can help desensitize your body to specific allergens over time.

6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Since you mentioned feeling discomfort and needing to rest, practicing mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga can help reduce stress and improve your overall sense of well-being. Stress can exacerbate allergic symptoms, so finding ways to relax is beneficial.

7. Follow-Up with Your Healthcare Provider
Since your next appointment is in March, keep track of your symptoms and any changes you notice. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with the above strategies, consider reaching out to your healthcare provider sooner for further evaluation and potential adjustments to your treatment plan.

Conclusion
Managing persistent allergic rhinitis requires a multifaceted approach that includes avoiding triggers, using medications effectively, and making lifestyle changes. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce the discomfort associated with allergic rhinitis. Remember to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment effectiveness, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

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